Japan by Train: The Grand Tour
12 Days Starting in Osaka, Japan and ending in Tokyo, Japan
Visiting: Osaka, Hiroshima, Itsukushima, Arashiyama, Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha, Hida no Sato, the Hida folk village, Takayama, Hakone, Tokyo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
JPX
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 16
Age range:
25-99
Special diets catered:
VegetariansMeat
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
From neon-lit skyscrapers to bamboo forests dotted with ancient temples, there’s nowhere quite like Japan. This 12-day trip will take you from the foodie capital of Osaka to the city lights of Tokyo, and even down to the floating Torii Gate of Miyajima Island, which sits in Hiroshima Bay. Along the way, you’ll get to see geishas in Kyoto, sample sake in Takayama and hang out with sumo wrestlers in the capital. You’ll get the chance to stay in a range of hotels and sing your heart out at karaoke alongside your fellow travellers. How can we squeeze so much into one itinerary? You have Japan’s incredible train networks to thank. Prepare to get your steps in on this one, too, since the other way to explore Japan at its best is by exploring on your own two feet.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In Osaka
Location: Osaka
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tokyu Stay Osaka Hommachi
Meals Included: Dinner
Osaka is a heady mix of cultural sights, foodie heaven and lively nightlife, making it the perfect introductory city to Japan. After landing at Kansai International Airport, make your way to the hotel where our Local Insider – who will accompany the group throughout the trip – will help you check in. Meet your fellow travellers at 5pm before receiving an introductory talk about the cultural dos and don’ts of the country. You’ll then head for dinner at a local restaurant to get your first taste of Japan. Make sure you get a good night’s rest – tomorrow is jam-packed with exciting explorations.
Activities included:
Welcome dinner
Day 2 : Explore Osaka City, Including The Castle And Kuromon Market
Location: Osaka
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Tokyu Stay Osaka Hommachi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today is all about exploring the best bits of the city on foot and by metro, led by our Local Insider. Marvel at the 400-year-old Osaka Castle as well as the uber-modern Umeda Sky Building. Explore the eclectic Shinsekai neighbourhood; built in 1912 and largely unchanged, it's home to souvenir shops as well as traditional eateries. Lunch is served at a local restaurant, after which you can explore the Kuromon Market and the famed Dotonbori strip (home to the first sushi train in the world). Rest your weary feet back at the hotel before dinner.
Activities included:
Full-day guided Osaka tour
Day 3 : Visit The Hiroshima Peace Park And Try ‘Okonomiyaki’
Location: Hiroshima
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: EN HOTEL Hiroshima
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, it’s time to climb aboard the bullet train to Hiroshima. On arrival, we’ll head to Hiroshima Peace Park and Museum to learn more about the city's past and the sheer gravity of the tragedy that hit this city back in 1945. After some free time we’ll reunite at dinner to try okonomiyaki, a popular savoury pancake, topped with meat or seafood. You’ll spend the next two nights in Hiroshima.
Activities included:
Hiroshima Peace Park and Museum visit
Okonomiyaki Dinner
Day 4 : Time To Explore Miyajima Island
Location: Itsukushima, Hiroshima
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: EN HOTEL Hiroshima
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we’ll take a local train and ferry to Miyajima Island, where you’ll get to hike Mount Misen; the peak, at 500m (1,640ft) above sea level, offers spectacular views over Hiroshima city. Descend to the floating Torii Gate, an ancient Shinto shrine, and snap pictures of the thousand tame deer that mingle with locals here. After sunset, you’ll hop on the ferry back to your Hiroshima hotel.
Activities included:
Miyajima Island tour
Guided Mount Misen hike
Day 5 : Explore Ancient Streets And Spot Geishas In Kyoto
Location: Arashiyama, Kyoto
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Henn na Hotel Kyoto Hachijoguchi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Pack your bags – it’s time to head to Kyoto. Upon arrival in Japan’s most scenic city, you’ll take a leisurely tour through the maze of backstreets in Kyoto. Visit Nijo Castle, Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) and the Nishiki food market, before wrapping up the day with a tour of the famous geisha district of Gion, to see geishas walking the streets before their shows, as the sun sets on Kyoto.
Activities included:
Kyoto tour
Geisha district tour
Day 6 : Wander Through The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Location: Kyoto, Fushimi Inari Taisha
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Henn na Hotel Kyoto Hachijoguchi
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we’ll whizz east by train to the outskirts of Kyoto, ready for an afternoon tour in Arashiyama. You know those towering green bamboo forests? Get ready to stroll through them, camera at the ready. Make sure you’re wearing comfortable walking shoes as you’ll then hike up to a sacred temple in the mountains, as well as through the thousands of bright orange torii gates at Fushimi Inari. Late this afternoon we’ll hop back on the train to Kyoto, where you'll spend another night.
Activities included:
Bamboo forest visit
Temple hike
Fushimi Inari tour
Day 7 : Explore The Japanese Alps And Taste Sake
Location: Hida no Sato, the Hida folk village, Takayama
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Wing International Hida Takayama
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid sayonara to Kyoto this morning, and hop on a train to Takayama. In the mountainous Gifu prefecture, this area is known as the Japanese Alps. Today you’ll visit the Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum with 30 old farmhouses that showcase the traditional architecture of the area. After a good wander, spend your afternoon sampling sake – alcohol made from fermented rice – at a local brewery.
Activities included:
Hida Folk Village visit
Sake tasting
Day 8 : Soak In An Onsen In Hakone
Location: Hakone
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Hakone Yumoto
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Spend the morning browsing the Miyagawa market in Takayama – it is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs. After the market tour, you’ll head to the fellow alpine town of Hakone, which sits just outside Tokyo. Check in to the hotel for a traditional Japanese ryokan experience with dinner included. The town is known for onsens (natural hot springs) – luckily, the hotel has a steaming tub for you to soak in. Please note that some onsens prohibit anyone with tattoos from entering.
Activities included:
Miyagawa market tour
Traditional ryokan experience and onsen soak
Day 9 : Cruise On Lake Ashi And Hike To Volcanic Geysers
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Henn na Hotel Tokyo Akasaka
Meals Included: Breakfast
Prepare yourself for a morning cruise on Lake Ashi. Beyond the water and forested hillsides, you’ll be rewarded with expansive views of Mount Fuji. Disembark onto dry land before ascending the Ropeway to Hell. Don’t worry, it’s just a cable car that will scoot you over the Hell Valley mountain peaks to Owakudani, the Great Boiling Valley. The jagged landscape is filled with bubbling geysers and volcanic pools. Afterwards, it’s time to make tracks to Tokyo. For those with energy left, join the optional evening walking tour around Taito City.
Activities included:
Lake Ashi cruise
Ropeway to Hell cable car
Geyser visit
Optional activities:
Guided Taito City walk
Day 10 : Make Your Own Sushi In Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Henn na Hotel Tokyo Akasaka
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
You’ll spend the last few days of your trip exploring Tokyo, the capital of Japan. Your first morning will be spent with a morning tour of the city, with a notable visit to the fish market, Tsukiji Outer Market. Lunch revolves around a sushi-making class, where you’ll eat your own creations. Spend the afternoon visiting Meiji Shrine and Shibuya Crossing, the busiest crosswalk in the world. Kick back at your hotel in the evening.
Activities included:
Tsukiji Outer Market tour
Sushi-making class
Meiji Shrine and Shibuya Crossing tour
Day 11 : Get To Grips With Sumo And Sing Karaoke In Kabukicho
Location: Tokyo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Henn na Hotel Tokyo Akasaka
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Your final full day in Japan will see a visit to the Asakusa district and the glorious Sensō-ji temple. After that you’ll get a sumo masterclass with two retired wrestlers, who’ll put on a demonstration of basic sumo techniques, and you’ll even have the chance to get to grips with them yourself! After that you’ll break bread over delicious Tonkatsu (Japanese-style Pork Cutlet) and Chanko Nabe, a hearty hotpot and a staple of the sumo diet. Having chatted away with our retired wrestlers, we’ll head off to the buzzing, neon-lit Shinjuku district, where you’ll be afforded panoramic city vistas from the TMG Building, before moving onto the nightlife area of Kabukicho for dinner. End the trip on a high note (quite literally) by singing karaoke in the Golden Gai district until the early hours.
Activities included:
Asakusa tour
Sensō-ji temple visit
Sumo wrestler experience
Shinjuku tour
Farewell dinner and karaoke night
Day 12 : Depart From Tokyo
Location: Tokyo
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to wave goodbye to Japan. Don’t worry if you’ve got a slightly sore head this morning, as you can enjoy a lie-in before breakfast. Checkout is by midday. Say your final farewells before starting the journey home – or extend your stay in the Land of the Rising Sun.
What's Included
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Local Insider
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Accommodation
One night spa hotel accommodation Ten nights standard hotel accommodation
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Private and local transport
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Meals described in the itinerary
11 breakfasts, two lunches, four dinners
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Osaka tour
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Bamboo forest and temple visit
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Fushimi Inari sunrise tour
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Hida Folk Village visit
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Sake tasting
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Lake Ashi cruise
What's Not Included
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Meals not in the itinerary
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Visas (if required)
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Optional activities
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Resort Taxes (If applicable)
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International Flights
Accommodation
10 nights standard hotel
One night spa hotel
Tokyu Stay Osaka Hommachi, Osaka
This stylish, modern city hotel places you right in the thick of a buzzing district of Osaka. Feel the pulse of the city as you hit the streets, but become enveloped in the soothing sense of calm that washes over you as soon as you enter through the doors. Opt for Japanese or Western-style breakfasts to start the day right!
EN HOTEL Hiroshima
Warm hues and clever lighting imbues a touch of sophistication to this hotel on the banks of the Kyobashi River. The luscious greenery (or cherry blossom when in season) of Hijiyama Park is just a 10-minute walk across the river, or you could head in the other direction for 20 minutes and reach Hijiyama Park.
Henn na Hotel Kyoto Hachijoguchi, Kyoto
This Kyoto hotel, conveniently located near the train station, is a classic example of Japan’s love of embracing futuristic, high-tech features. There’s the specially designed mattresses and pillows, cutting edge wallpaper and carpet materials designed to create a relaxing ambience, and the fluffy duvet made of high-quality down. Everything is modern and created with care, while on the quirkier side of technological advancement lies the robot dinosaurus, ready to greet you at reception…
Hotel Wing International Hida Takayama
Enjoy a hint of traditionalism in this hotel located in the heart of Takayama’s beautiful Edo period streets. The hotel itself is a little more up-to-date, from the cosy bedrooms to the large public bath with natural hot spring water. Prepare to fall in love with the local cuisine of Takayama at the in-house restaurant, with specialities including miso soup and Hida beef croquettes.
Hotel Hakone Yumoto, Hakone
Find yourself surrounded by an abundance of verdant greenery at this Hakone hotel that could loosen up the tensest of muscles. From the comfy beds to the beautiful onsen (natural hot springs) and its truly gorgeous location in the middle of a quiet, luscious forested valley, this place is as relaxing as hotels get.
Henn na Hotel Tokyo Akasaka, Tokyo
Stay right in the beating heart of Tokyo at this modern city hotel, which boasts easy access to three stations, and is even within walking distance of several major Tokyo attractions. Head in one direction for the Imperial Palace and in another for the Tokyo Tower, and another again to discover the vibrant Shibuya district. The hotel itself is crisply designed, while breakfast options are varied and dining options are a little unusual for this part of the world, thanks to the hotel’s very own Irish-style pub!
Please note that, while unlikely, the accommodation indicated may be subject to change (see T&C’s). On a rare occasion, alternative arrangements may be necessary – this may be due to a lack of availability at our preferred accommodation, or other reasons outside our control. We’ll do everything we can to prevent this from happening; however, in cases where it is unavoidable, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Check out our Q&As
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Why should I travel with Culture Trip?
We know the world's best bits – our award-winning content proves it. Now we’re using that expertise to bring you curated trips that combine thoughtful planning with authentic experiences and hand-picked accommodation. Led by Local Insiders, our trips bring together small groups of curious travellers who embrace the value of shared experiences, cultural immersion and travel that never feels rushed.
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When will I know if my trip is guaranteed?
We usually wait until we have a few travellers booked on a trip before we guarantee it will run. The latest we will guarantee a trip is 60 days ahead of departure, often it will be long before.
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Can I book extra nights accommodation before or after my trip?
Yes, call or email one of our Travel Experts who will be able to add accommodation to your booking.
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How much money should I bring?
This will depend on how long your trip is, your destination and how much you intend to spend on personal expenses and any meals that aren’t included. It is a good idea to check out the cost of a local lunch and dinner in your destination before you travel.
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Are flights / transport to the destination included?
No - our travellers come from all over the world so flights and / or transport to the start destination are not included.
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Do I need to buy travel insurance?
Yes - all travellers must have travel insurance before they join one of our trips. You are strongly advised to take out your policy at the time of booking to protect your holiday payments in the event of cancellation.
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Is there any age limit on the Trips?
You must be 25 or over to travel on our trips, however there is no upper age limit. You just need a sense of adventure.
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What is the group size?
Our maximum group size is 16, although our average group size is 10-12 people. Group travel is a great way to meet other people, and you will have the safety of travelling with a group, but you can also decide how much time you want to spend by yourself.
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What is not included in the trip?
We don’t include the following in our trips: insurance (however you must have insurance to travel on one of our trips), flights, tips for local guides, optional activities and other meals and services not mentioned in your itinerary.
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How many meals are included?
Breakfast is included daily and then depending on your itinerary, some lunches and dinners. This is clearly indicated in the trip details or ask your Travel Expert to confirm.
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Do I need any vaccinations?
As a tour operator we are unable to give medical advice, however we suggest you contact your doctor, a professional medical travel clinic or check out the World Health Organisation website for more details.
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What happens if I am travelling on my own?
Most accommodations on our trips are reserved on a twin share basis. Therefore, if you are travelling on your own you will be sharing a room with another Culture Trip traveller of the same sex. However, most of the time it is possible to pay a supplement for your own room. Please ask your Travel Expert for more information.
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What visas do I need?
Depending on your passport and your destination, you may need a visa to travel on one of our trips. It is up to you to ensure you have any and all necessary visas before you travel. We recommend you check with a specialist visa agency at least 6 weeks before you travel.
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Can I travel in my own private group?
Yes you can. Our team of Travel Experts can put together a bespoke trip to suit all group sizes in most destinations around the world. Please contact us for more details.
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Will there always be a guide on the trip?
Absolutely yes. We pride ourselves on our expert Local Insiders - they are an integral part of what makes our trips so special. Your Local Insider will accompany you throughout the trip and is there to help and assist in any way possible as well as ensure everything works to time.
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How fit do I need to be to take one of your trips?
We offer a variety of different trips, most of which do not require a specific level of fitness. Some of our trips are more active, but we include details on each specific trip information page. If you are unsure please don’t hesitate to ask one of our Travel Experts.
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What happens if I need to amend or cancel my booking?
You can change the date of your tour up to 60 days prior to departure and cancel at any time, although cancellation conditions may apply.
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Do I need to tip?
Tips are not included in the price of your trip but are entirely optional and at your discretion.
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What kind of transport do you use on your trips?
We use a mix of public and private transport on our trips, but usually a small and comfortable minibus, so we can access more remote destinations that larger groups can’t get to.
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What kind of luggage should I bring?
It depends on the type of trip you have booked, but we usually recommend a soft sided bag or case as they are easier to handle on a trip.
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Are airport transfers included?
Some of our trips do not include airport transfers, so we recommend customers either take public transport or a taxi. However, if you would like us to arrange a private transfer please ask one of our travel experts who can arrange this for you.
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I booked but cannot travel anymore. What are the amendments and cancellation options?
We understand plans can change and that’s why we offer flexible booking conditions. You can change or cancel your booking at any time up to 56 days prior to departure and receive a full refund of any funds you have already paid towards your trip.
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Do I have to make full payment at the time of booking?
You do not have to make full payment at the time of booking. We only require a small, fully refundable deposit of $100 to secure your spot on the trip. Full payment is due at the latest 56 days prior to departure.
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Do I have to take part in all the activities? Will there be free time on my trip?
The amount of free time varies per trip. Please enquire with our travel experts to get a proper understanding on the amount of free time on the trips you are interested in. You do not have to take part in all activities but we strongly encourage you to do so! We have carefully crafted each trip to show you the best of every destination, so you’d be missing out! Also taking part in activities is a great way to get to know your travel companions and make new friends. Nothing like a positive and supportive group environment to venture outside of your comfort zone and surprise yourself!
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What is a Local Insider?
We believe there’s no better way to discover a new place and a new culture than by experiencing it through the eyes and experience of a local. That’s why we only work with local guides - whom we name our Local Insiders. They know their region inside out and have a passion for sharing it with travellers. All our Local Insiders have years of experience guiding and speak English. Importantly, they like to travel the way we like it too: away from crowds, tourist traps and queues. Focussing on the true essence of a destination, teaching you all about the local culture and profusely sharing local hidden gems and insights.
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Free Date Changes
Culture Trip allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 55 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Culture Trip allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform culture trip, 55 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Culture Trip requires a minimum deposit of 300 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 55 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of culture trip charges.
Up to 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 54 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.